Research Scientist - Biocatalysis

JR United Kingdom; Bracknell; On-site; Full time

Job summary

A global agrochemical company is seeking a Research Scientist in Biocatalysis to develop sustainable processes for small active ingredient production. This role involves collaboration, innovation, and the application of biocatalysis in chemical transformations. Candidates should have a PhD and experience in biocatalysis.

Qualifications

• Experience in biocatalytic retrosynthesis and transformations.
• Proficiency in organic synthesis and quantitative chemical analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop biocatalysis for chemical transformations in industry.
• Monitor reactions and develop assays to detect products.
• Collaborate across scientific disciplines and build networks.

Skills

Collaboration

Quantitative Problem Solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

PhD in Biocatalysis

Tools

UPLC

LC/MS

Job description

Job Title: Research Scientist (Biocatalysis) – Global Agrochemical Company

Contract: 12 months (potential to be extended)

Salary: £20.18 per hour

An exciting opportunity to establish workflows for the development of biocatalytic processes for sustainable, small active ingredient molecule production.

We are seeking candidates with a background in biocatalysis (enzymes and/or microorganisms) applied to the identification and optimization of chemical transformations. The role requires an entrepreneurial mindset and strong collaboration skills, involving cross-functional teamwork and partnerships.

This position offers the chance to gain experience working within an industrial environment, with opportunities to grow platforms and shape workflows for biocatalytic process development in chemical manufacturing.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Application and development of biocatalysis for chemical transformations in an industrial setting.
2. Reaction monitoring, including developing assays (e.g., UPLC, LC/MS) to detect hits, intermediates, and products.
3. Understanding biocatalytic reactions, mechanisms, and kinetic behaviors; awareness of enzyme evolution, preparation, and scale-up is desirable.
4. Approaching scientific problems quantitatively and creatively.
5. Collaborating and building networks across scientific disciplines.
6. Holding a PhD in biocatalysis or a related field.
7. Experience in biocatalytic retrosynthesis and developing biocatalytic transformations, with knowledge of enzyme evolution, synthesis, and utilization.
8. Proficiency in organic synthesis and quantitative chemical reaction analysis.
9. Excellent communication skills for engaging across scientific disciplines.
10. Strong teamworking skills, organized, with a proven track record of delivering scientific research.